One of the first decisions you'll need to make after saying "yes"... is where you're going to say "I Do".
Fortunately, you'll find many choices in the area, ranging from rustic country settings, to hip downtown venues, and of course a variety of beautiful churches.
As a Springfield, MO wedding photographer, I've had the opportunity to shoot at many of the most popular locations, and I've found a few hidden secrets, too.
Of course, I haven't been everywhere, and everyone's tastes and opinions are different. But based on my own experience and preferences, here's my list of the Top 10 Wedding Venues in Springfield and Branson, Missouri:
#10 The Loft At Keith Farms
Located about 30 minutes north of Springfield in Ash Grove, MO, The Loft is actually a very large barn located on a real, working farm. The setting is all country... right down to the tractors, bales of hay, horses, and old-fashioned windmill just outside the barn. If you've always dreamed of getting married on a farm, I'd strongly suggest checking this one out.
#9 The Mansion at Elfindale
From the moment you first drive through the gates and up the long, tree-lined entrance to the Mansion at Elfindale, you're surrounded by history. Built in 1892, the Mansion operates as both a bed and breakfast, and an event venue. It's classic Victorian style and adjacent chapel make it a very popular choice for local brides (and their wedding photographers!).
#8 The Veridian
The downtown location and classy, urban design of The Veridian make it a great choice for brides who prefer city over country. Guests are treated to valet parking and enter through a spacious two-story atrium in the front of the building before going upstairs to the main room. If you're looking for an element of downtown hipness and style on your wedding day, I'd definitely recommend The Veridian.
#7 The Diamond Room
This venue, presumably named for the beautiful chandeliers that light the main room, is one of the most popular in Springfield... and for good reason. The Diamond Room is versatile enough to serve as a location for both ceremonies and receptions, and the on-site catering staff is top notch. One thing that sets it apart from many others is the venue's dedicated dance floor. If you and your guests like to party, be sure to check it out.
#6 Samuel Cedars
As it's name implies, the outdoor courtyard at this venue is surrounded by cedar trees, which offer both privacy and a beautiful backdrop for ceremonies. Located just off highway 60 in Rogersville, it's just a short drive from Springfield. The grounds are beautiful and well maintained, making this a terrific location for an outdoor, casual country wedding. And, there's an indoor reception hall, too. If you're planning on wearing boots on your wedding day... Samuel Cedars should be on your list.
#5 University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center
#4 Branson Stonegate Glass Chapel
When I first moved to Springfield and saw some pictures of this venue, I couldn't wait to shoot a wedding there. Fortunately, I've had the opportunity to photograph many ceremonies at the Branson Stonegate Glass Chapel, and each one has been beautiful. The chapel, located just off highway 65 in the hills north of Branson, is surrounded by lush greenery and trees. You really have to see it to fully appreciate it. There's no reception hall on site, but if you're looking for a private, scenic location for your wedding ceremony, this venue should definitely be on your list.
#3 The Tower Club
Located on the 21st and 22nd floor of The Hammons Tower in downtown Springfield, The Tower Club is, in my opinion, the premier venue for upscale wedding receptions. It's floor to ceiling windows offer a beautiful view of the city, and the facility consistently lives up to it's outstanding reputation. If your budget allows, you'll find everything you need for a gorgeous reception at this venue.
#2 National Avenue Christian Church
It's no secret of course that there are countless churches throughout the Ozarks, and many come to mind as beautiful venues. My personal favorite is the National Avenue Christian Church in Springfield. Classic elegance, traditional beauty, and local charm all describe the church well, and couples of all denominations are welcome. Some of the best wedding pictures I've ever shot have been at this church, and I look forward to shooting many more!
#1 Dogwood Canyon Nature Park
I'm always surprised to encounter people who live in Springfield who are not aware of Dogwood Canyon. It's not only my number one favorite wedding venue in the area, but apparently also one of the best kept secrets in the Ozarks:) There's a very pretty chapel in the park that resembles a log cabin for ceremonies. But the real beauty of this venue is the park itself. Located just north of the Arkansas border in Lampe, MO, Dogwood Canyon is home to some of the most beautiful scenery I've ever seen, ranging from waterfalls, to covered bridges, tree-lined paths, and more.
You can see many pictures from weddings at Dogwood Canyon elsewhere on this blog, and also on my Springfield wedding photography site as I shoot there often for both business and pleasure.
If you're planning a more upscale, formal wedding, this venue would not be a good choice. But if you're like me and appreciate the natural, genuine beauty of the Ozarks and want it reflected in pictures from your special day, then trust me... this is the place where you should say "I Do".
